The Founding Fathers, Slavery and Black Patriotism Author Roger Wilkins notes that many founding fathers were slave owners, a fact that affects the patriotism of African-Americans today. Wilkins argues it was the slaves with their labor who allowed men such as Thomas Jefferson and George Washington the freedom to become statesmen.

A George Washington Birthday Celebration

The first president of the United States was born Feb. 22, 1732. The rest is history.

The Founding Fathers, Slavery and Black Patriotism

Only Available in Archive Formats.

Real Media

The Founding Fathers, Slavery and Black Patriotism

The Founding Fathers, Slavery and Black Patriotism

Only Available in Archive Formats.

Real Media

July 4, 200112:00 AM ET

Heard on Morning Edition

Author Roger Wilkins notes that many founding fathers were slave owners, a fact that affects the patriotism of African-Americans today. Wilkins argues it was the slaves with their labor who allowed men such as Thomas Jefferson and George Washington the freedom to become statesmen.

Commentary

Washington's Cook, Hercules March 14, 2003

Special Series

A George Washington Birthday Celebration

The first president of the United States was born Feb. 22, 1732. The rest is history.